The Illinois Consortium on Drug Policy was established in 2005 and is housed at Roosevelt University’s Institute for Metropolitan Affairs (IMA) in Chicago, Illinois. The Consortium engages in projects that intersect with drugs, health and the criminal justice system. The Consortium aims to inform Illinois public policy by disseminating information that informs policymaking and educates the general public.

Mission

The Consortium’s primary objectives are to promote discussion of alternatives to Illinois’ current drug policies and to serve as a forum for the open, honest, and thoughtful exchange of ideas. The Consortium views individuals and communities that have been directly impacted by drug policies as integral components for change.

Vision

The Consortium envisions a time when Illinoisans discuss and view substance use disorders in a new way—as a public health problem, rather than a criminal justice issue.

The Illinois Consortium on Drug Policy is frequently featured in the media, averaging about 2 media hits a week. Journalists often rely on our expertise to help them develop stories or to fact check information as it relates to drugs and drug policies.

Our Students and Interns

Student workers and interns comprise our primary workforce and are involved in all aspects of our work. If you are interested in an internship, student work experience or volunteering please contact Kathie. Please note, all students or interested individuals should submit a cover letter, resume, and an academic writing sample.

We need students with majors/minors in the following disciplines (list is not exclusive as drug policy intersects with MANY social spheres):

Social Sciences

Math/Stats

Policy

Counseling

Psychology

Education

History

Journalism

Public Relations/Marketing

Communications

English

Women's Studies

Criminal Justice

Bilingual individuals are strongly encouraged to apply. Individuals with criminal records or lived experience are VERY strongly encouraged to apply. Please note that the Consortium supports evidenced based research and uses the philosophy of harm reduction in its work in both policy and clinical services.